Andy Burnham to Propose New North Sea Oil and Gas Licenses

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is set to announce plans to allow new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea, according to reports. The move comes despite the Labour Party's 2024 manifesto pledge to stop issuing new licenses for fossil fuel extraction in the region. Burnham's proposal has sparked debate within the party, as it appears to contradict the environmental commitments made during the last election campaign. The North Sea has been a major source of UK oil and gas for decades, but extraction has become increasingly controversial due to climate change concerns. Labour's manifesto had promised a transition to renewable energy, with no new licenses for oil and gas. Burnham, a prominent Labour figure, has not yet detailed the specifics of his plan or how it would align with the party's climate goals. The announcement is expected to face opposition from environmental groups and some Labour members who argue that new drilling would undermine the UK's net-zero emissions target by 2050. Supporters of the plan, however, say it could boost energy security and create jobs. The UK government currently licenses North Sea drilling, but the Labour leadership has indicated it would phase out new approvals if it wins power. Burnham's proposal highlights ongoing tensions within the party over balancing economic interests with environmental commitments.